Creating an Inclusive Workplace: The “New School” Path to Excellence

In most South Bay nonprofits, diversity is a given. Not only does the racial, ethnic and linguistic diversity of the wider Southern California community find itself into our workplaces, many nonprofits have a stated commitment to diversity. However, what most don’t realize is that diversity alone doesn’t work. Because of the way humans evolved, and how our brains process information, diverse workplaces often experience decreased morale and productivity and increased conflict and silos. However, diverse workplaces that are also inclusive surpass non-diverse workplaces in obtaining results that matter, especially through their creativity and problem solving. Creating an inclusive workplace is now a must-have for creating the results necessary to fulfill your mission. However, leading inclusively is neither intuitive for most leaders, nor effectively modeled in most workplaces!

In this dynamic and interactive session, come hear the startling in-depth reasons why leading inclusively is necessary, yet difficult! You will learn the key characteristics of inclusive leaders and workplaces, explore one practical tool for effectively navigating human differences at work, conduct an assessment of your current organization and create an action plan for implementing “New School D&I” in your work life.

By the end of the session, participants will:

· Understand the difference between “old school” and “new school” approaches to diversity in the workplace

· Know the evidence for why “new school” diversity works and “old school” doesn’t

· Understand the real reasons “doing diversity” right is difficult, but necessary to success

· Identify the key characteristics of inclusive leaders and workplaces

· Understand and apply key concepts of unconscious bias

· Explore one practical tool for effectively navigating human differences at work

· Complete an assessment of your organization’s strengths and opportunities around “New School” diversity and inclusiveness

· Create an action plan for next steps

Trainer: Susana Rinderle

Susana helps leaders and organizations solve a pressing problem or go from good to great through the power of inclusive leadership. She has also coached women, people of color and Millenials to greater clarity, confidence, direction and influence in a life or work area that matters to them.

Susana has spent 25 years garnering meaningful results for employers and clients across the U.S. and abroad in multiple sectors including nonprofit, corporate, healthcare, education and government. She feels most alive during moments of awe, awwwww!, ah-HA! and ha-ha-ha! – and facilitating such moments for others. She is proud to have been featured at TEDxABQ 2012 speaking on “Diversity is Necessary for Human Evolution”.

She was the co-founder and first Manager of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for University of New Mexico Hospitals (UNMH), overseeing or starting health equity and health literacy initiatives, LGBT advocacy, interpreter services and cultural competence training. She participated in the Disparities Leadership Program through Massachusetts General Hospital, and co-authored an award-winning diversity strategic plan. After she left, UNMH was recognized as one of the Top 10 Hospital Systems by DiversityInc, and a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality.

Susana is known among her clients and workshop participants for being competent, knowledgeable, engaging or warm, passionate, effective, impeccable, and having high integrity. I’ve been called “a walking encyclopedia” and said to “push people, but gently.”

Cancellation policy: We require notice of cancellation at least 48 hours in advance of the class start time. No refunds will be provided for no-shows or late cancellations. LACAC grantees who register and do not show up will be invoiced for the full cost of the course. You are encouraged to send an alternate if you are unable to attend.

By registering: you will receive occasional emails about Partnership events. You can opt out at any time. You also give the Partnership permission to use your image for communications and waive any rights for compensation.